April 16, 2021

TWO COMMANDMENTS

Matthew 22:37-40

Jesus said to him, “‘You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.”

Personal Challenge

My former, retired priest used to often tell me that one of this challenges with his flock was their constant request for a set of rules to live their lives by. As humans we are constantly looking for that perfect checklist to use so that we can earn our way Into heaven. First of all, there is no earning our way into God's grace. It is a free gift that only He can give. Secondly, a checklist becomes a shortcut, a crutch, and often a measuring stick used to lord it over our brothers and sisters. How are you doing keeping the fast? How many prayers did you say today? How many services have you come to (regardless of how many people you have cut in front of to get there? Our Old Testament Jewish forefathers were given 10 commandments, which later evolved into over 600 rules and laws. We are doing the same with the teachings of our Lord, the Apostles, and the early church fathers, with our many traditions that are viewed as sacraments. Jesus gave us two commandments to live our lives by. Yes? Only two! If we live by these two commandments, we will be godly, righteous people. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind and love your neighbor as yourself. There is nothing more needed than these two commandments. Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, the sinner, and teach me to love your way?